President Bola Tinubu’s decision to lift the six-month emergency rule in Rivers State marks a dramatic turn in one of Nigeria’s most intense political crises of recent times.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Nma Odu, and the embattled House of Assembly members are now back in office. But beyond the headlines, the bigger question is: what next for Rivers politics, governance, and stability?
Its lifting is a relief
The state of emergency, declared in March, effectively suspended democratic institutions in Rivers, raising fears about constitutional overreach. Its lifting is a relief to many Nigerians who viewed it as a dangerous precedent.
The reinstatement of Gov. Fubara signals a return to constitutional order. Yet, the fragility of Rivers politics means democracy’s survival depends on how both the governor and the legislature manage their differences moving forward.
Rivers Fubara reinstatement
For Fubara, reinstatement is not simply a return to office. It’s a second chance.
He now faces the tough task of rebuilding trust with Rivers people, healing political divisions, and proving his capacity to govern without being overshadowed by godfather politics.
His leadership will be under intense scrutiny, especially from those who believe his initial months were consumed by infighting rather than governance.
President Tinubu’s role in Rivers
President Tinubu’s role cannot be overlooked. By lifting the emergency, he projects himself as a stabilizer and statesman who can balance political interests while maintaining order.
But critics argue that the declaration and now its reversal, reflects how deeply politics at the federal level interferes in state affairs.
This development may shape perceptions of Tinubu’s broader leadership style as one that mixes firmness with strategic retreat.
Rivers Return to normalcy
The return to normalcy is expected to bring relief to residents who have endured months of uncertainty.
Businesses, especially in Port Harcourt, suffered under the tense atmosphere, while public workers and communities feared the instability could spiral into violence.
However, lifting the emergency is only the first step. Real progress will be measured by whether peace translates into good governance, infrastructure development, and improved livelihoods.
Rivers crisis: a reminder
The Rivers crisis is a reminder of the dangers of unchecked political rivalry. If unresolved, it could resurface, plunging the state into another round of chaos.
Both Fubara and his opponents in the Assembly must now prioritize dialogue over brinkmanship. The people of Rivers deserve stability, not another cycle of political warfare.
Editorial Standpoint
As Rivers State re-opens its democratic chapter, leaders must put aside ego battles and focus on governance. President Tinubu has played his part by ending the emergency rule.
Now, the responsibility rests squarely on Governor Fubara and the legislature to prove that the interest of Rivers people comes first.
History will not forgive another relapse into political crisis.
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